Summary: In the light of the Franciscan tradition, this paper analyzes the actual relationship between economy and communication. The economy goes better when fraternal communications are encouraged and sustained, that is to say when economic goods are subordinated to relational goods. Taking into account St. Francis of Assisi’s intuitions, his followers made a significant contribution to the development of the economic theory and practice during the XIII-XV centuries. This article examines those proposals and asserts the fact that they continue to being suggestive and useful to solve today's economic crisis.